Dengue in Ecuador: its relationship with climate change and the dynamics of Aedes aegypti.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31243/mdc.uta.v9i3.2812.2025Keywords:
dengue, climate change, environmental factors, adaptationAbstract
Introduction: Dengue is the most common vector-borne disease in Ecuador, especially in tropical areas. Climate change and environmental conditions have favored its spread to new regions, including higher altitudes. This represents a challenge for disease surveillance and control in the country.
Methodology: A review and analysis of scientific literature addressing the impact of dengue in Ecuador was conducted, with an emphasis on its relationship with climate change and the environmental conditions that favor its spread.
Results: In Ecuador, 27,838 cases of dengue were reported in 2023, increasing to 61,352 in 2024 and 15,814 cases in 2025. The most affected provinces are in tropical areas such as Guayas, Napo, and Manabí; however, a notable increase has been seen in Andean provinces such as Loja, Pichincha, and Bolívar.
Discussion: The analysis reveals that the behavior of Aedes aegypti and the transmission dynamics of dengue are closely linked to environmental variables such as increased temperature, humidity, and rainfall. These conditions have allowed the colonization of previously non-endemic areas, such as regions of the Ecuadorian Sierra. Furthermore, extreme weather events, such as El Niño, accelerate its life cycle, favoring a higher incidence.
Conclusions: It is concluded that climate change, combined with unfavorable socio-environmental factors, has intensified the presence of dengue in the country. Integrated environmental surveillance and health control strategies are required to contain its spread and reduce its impact on public health
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Copyright (c) 2025 María Paz Calle Tello, Claudia Gabriela Clavijo Rosales, Rosa Daniela Pineda Baculima
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